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Keith Curry's Case Files #3
Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector
Vampire Hunter. Leprechaun Fighter. Food Inspector.
Keith Curry has his work cut out for him.
NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division is a secret organization operating in thousands of cities around the globe. Its agents police relations between the earthly realm and those beyond this world, protecting citizens from both mundane and otherworldly dangers.
Former chef turned NIAD food inspector, Special Agent Keith Curry found out about magic the hard way and is now determined to keep dinner safe for everybody. Includes the novellas “Cherries Worth Getting,” “Magically Delicious” and the never-before-published “Bring Out Your Best” plus bonus shorts and more!
Keith Curry has his work cut out for him.
NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division is a secret organization operating in thousands of cities around the globe. Its agents police relations between the earthly realm and those beyond this world, protecting citizens from both mundane and otherworldly dangers.
Former chef turned NIAD food inspector, Special Agent Keith Curry found out about magic the hard way and is now determined to keep dinner safe for everybody. Includes the novellas “Cherries Worth Getting,” “Magically Delicious” and the never-before-published “Bring Out Your Best” plus bonus shorts and more!
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
3 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 18, 2018
Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector by Nicole Kimberling is a book I requested from NetGalley and the review is voluntary. I really enjoyed the uniqueness of the "food inspectors" aspect in this fantasy town. Goblins, elves, vampires, humans, and more living and working together. Also portals for transport. Great imagination! Gunther is one of the main characters but he is a goblin but while in the uterus he was manipulated to look like a human. He grew up having more opportunities due to this secret. Another magic of this author's clever imagination. This is also a gay romance in parts. The two main characters were lovers in the past and now that they are back together, love blossoms anew.
Meanwhile, there are many seedy crimes they are trying to solve. Cannibalism...that can be a problem for a food inspector. That is just one of many things in this strange and curious land.
Meanwhile, there are many seedy crimes they are trying to solve. Cannibalism...that can be a problem for a food inspector. That is just one of many things in this strange and curious land.
September 9, 2018
this seemed pretty promising at the beginning due to the very original premise - supernatural food inspector who thinks a place is serving up human flesh? count me in. something that i wasn't expecting was that this is actually a collection of short stories, which isn't a problem, it's just a bit weird that it's not stated on the cover - it sort of implies it with "adventures of a..." but that's very vague. anyway, minor thing, not really an issue, just thought i'd mention it in case y'all thought it was a novel/one continuous narrative.
so basically, there's a couple of mystery-type novellas that make up most of the book, and in the middle there's also a couple of mega short, quite cute flash fictions that explore the relationship between keith and gunther. they were enjoyable, but for some reason i didn't really find their personalities particularly exciting. keith was uh, Not the most likable character though, and not in an interesting way, just in a "ah, bit of a jerk" kind of way, and gunther was a bit flat.
i also wasn't fond of the mysteries. whenever i don't like a mystery, my main problem is nearly always the same: stakes. there aren't enough stakes. the culprit just turns out to be this person out of many other people who we don't really connect with, who don't enter the narrative in any particularly exciting way, and who are not surprising at all. a good mystery has excellent rendering of characters, so it's surprising when someone turns out to be the culprit because you thought their feelings/motives were this but it actually turns out to be that. you know what i'm saying? but when it's just Random Goblin #1, Random Goblin #2, Random Vampire #1 and Random Vampire #2, i just... don't care who it is. because it's not interesting, and there aren't any stakes.
tl;dr good concept, bad execution. one star does seem kind of harsh but at the same time i was BORED!!! so i think it deserves it. also, there was this offhand comment about how keith thought one of the suspects, a highly unpleasant person, had "ADD" or "autism" and this was presented in a negative light and that just rubbed me the wrong way. like, it's 2018, we're not going to be doing this lads.
so basically, there's a couple of mystery-type novellas that make up most of the book, and in the middle there's also a couple of mega short, quite cute flash fictions that explore the relationship between keith and gunther. they were enjoyable, but for some reason i didn't really find their personalities particularly exciting. keith was uh, Not the most likable character though, and not in an interesting way, just in a "ah, bit of a jerk" kind of way, and gunther was a bit flat.
i also wasn't fond of the mysteries. whenever i don't like a mystery, my main problem is nearly always the same: stakes. there aren't enough stakes. the culprit just turns out to be this person out of many other people who we don't really connect with, who don't enter the narrative in any particularly exciting way, and who are not surprising at all. a good mystery has excellent rendering of characters, so it's surprising when someone turns out to be the culprit because you thought their feelings/motives were this but it actually turns out to be that. you know what i'm saying? but when it's just Random Goblin #1, Random Goblin #2, Random Vampire #1 and Random Vampire #2, i just... don't care who it is. because it's not interesting, and there aren't any stakes.
tl;dr good concept, bad execution. one star does seem kind of harsh but at the same time i was BORED!!! so i think it deserves it. also, there was this offhand comment about how keith thought one of the suspects, a highly unpleasant person, had "ADD" or "autism" and this was presented in a negative light and that just rubbed me the wrong way. like, it's 2018, we're not going to be doing this lads.
September 24, 2018
Vampire Hunter. Leprechaun Fighter. Food Inspector. Keith Curry has his work cut out for him. NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division is a secret organization operating in thousands of cities around the globe. Its agents police relations between the earthly realm and those beyond this world, protecting citizens from both mundane and otherworldly dangers. Former chef turned NIAD food inspector, Special Agent Keith Curry found out about magic the hard way and is now determined to keep dinner safe for everybody. Includes the novellas Cherries Worth Getting, Magically Delicious and the never-before-published Bring Out Your Best plus bonus shorts and more!
Some preliminary stuff - this is partially an ARC review. I say partially because two out of three novellas were published previously in the anthologies and I bought and read them. In fact, I bought "Cherries worth getting" twice - first as part of my favorite m/m anthology ever "Irregulars" and then as a separate e-book story. I also bought the next novella in this book "Magically delicious" as part of "Charmed and dangerous" anthology.
There are also several very short stories in this book, two of them are Christmas codas which the writers of this anthology used to write as freebies for the holidays, for those readers who wanted quick happy glance at the characters I think. The third short I do not remember reading before.
And the third novella as the book tells you was not published previously.
So, for those of you who never read "Irregulars" - go READ that book now. However you don't really have to read other stories in that anthology in order to enjoy the adventures of NIAD food inspector Keith Curry and his boyfriend whose name and heritage will remain a secret because blurb does not talk about him.
The world where Keith Curry lives and works is similar to our world, except all kinds of beings work and live on Earth. Those beings come here through the magical portals from many magical realms and of course all kinds of issues arise that needs to be, I guess "regulated" is the best word to use here even though NIAD does much more than just regulate.
"The NATO Irregular Affairs Division, often simply called the Irregulars, had been tasked with the duty of policing other-realm traffic, beings and artifacts.
NIAD policed NATO territories, providing justice for the wronged and infrastructure for the hundreds of thousands of unearthy refugees, diaspora and emigres who now lived hidden within NATO Borders.
The array of agents employed by the department included rumped old magicians, witches in business suits, and faerie lawyers as well as wide variety of extra-human consultants. But the people who did most of the work were regular old human agents, like him."
Normally cases that Keith investigates involves problems with food. He is a former chef and the reason why NIAD noticed him was because as a chef he accidentally got involve in the cooking some human meat (dead human body just to be clear, because boy was I squicked the first time I read this story). Moreover, poor Keith even tasted the food while he was cooking it. He did not know what he was cooking and once he realized it, he became vegetarian for life and after he reported this to the authorities, NIAD agents showed up at his door and recruited him.
It just so happens that the case that Keith investigates in "Cherries worth getting" involves cannibalism as well. I should say first and foremost it involved murders, but Keith is trying to figure out which "extra - human" beings may have wanted to eat the remains as well. So basically the main plot of the story is fast moving adventure which involves magic and murder and food.
Another part of the plot which I thought was meshed very nicely with the adventure story was Keith reconnecting with the old flame, who also worked for NIAD. I said that his name should remain a secret, but I changed my mind. His name is Gunther Heartman and few years ago he and Keith had an affair and then broke up because reasons. I do not think that I will reveal a huge spoiler when I will say that at the end of this story they decide to stay together.
The stories which follow the "Cherries worth getting" especially other two novellas all deal with cases that Keith investigates, but they also move his relationship with Gunther forward and deepen their characterizations. I always like when characters have a lot on their plate, and their personalities are revealed in action so to speak.
After "Cherries worth getting" the author treats the readers to the two most adorable Christmas Codas called "The Cookie Jamboree" and "The Little Golden Book of Golden Stories".
These stories are so short that I really do not want to spoiler anything about them, but I cannot help but share with you some magically animated cookies from "The Cookie Jamboree" because I found them hilarious.
You see Gunther had been hosting Christmas Party for other NIAD agents and some other beings recently relocated from other realms for years and now Keith as a good boyfriend helps him to make cookies.
Only other agents had an idea of what to do with some of those cookies ( and yes, there was a reason for that which will remain unnamed).
"Then one of the cookies began to twitch. At first Keith thought it was a trick of the light and shifting parchment paper; then the little guy sat up. It twisted from side to side as if cracking its back.
Keith's reaction was immediate. He brought the spatula down hard. The gingerbread man caught it, struggling against him with strength and will that should have been impossible in a cookie.
"Ease up, kiddo, you'll squish him," Henry chided.
Keith relaxed his grip on the utensil and the gingerbread man showed the spatula away. It stood up, teetering on its rounded legs. It hopped from the cooling rack to the table, gave Keith the bras d'honneur, then gave Rake a more military salute."
"Magically delicious" novella is the story where Keith has to deal with some pixie dust which affected his boyfriend and other agents in some very unpredictable ways.
We ( the readers of this book I mean :)) already know that the cases that Keith investigates should not really be violent, but Keith knows that he has a talent for getting himself in trouble. Not in a sense that the guy is not good at what he does, but that he is unable to stay away when the cases often turn violent and dangerous. I loved him for that though and as I said, Keith is quite competent and he usually manages to get himself out of tough situations by finding unpredictable solutions to the problems he deals with.
On the personal front Keith gets to have more interactions with Gunther's parents who are very nice people really :).
As you can see I am not grading the stories in this book separately, I decided it would not make much sense, but if I were I would probably lowered the grade for "Magically delicious" in comparison to other two long novellas. It was lovely and entertaining, but for me it lacked something, I am not even sure what. Extra punch?
The last novella "Bring out your best" to me is the darkest one in this anthology which to me makes perfect sense, because of course in essence NIAD agents in this world deal with immigrants of all kind and even though the USA in this world is not complete copy of the real USA, but I got that the echoes of the real world politics may show up in this story.
Don't get me wrong, it is still a case that Keith investigates first and foremost and Gunther as always plays important role, but for example part of this case are extra humans who had been serving in US military for years, but who are now being discharged because of their heritage. I said that "Magically delicious" lacked an extra punch for me. This story definitely did not lack anything - I almost teared up reading about Jerry and Annie. Of course author gives us happy ending here and there were no personal issues between Gunther and Keith, but one cannot help but think about our world issues and I thought that was a wonderful thing.
Grade:B/B+
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2018
This is an entertaining bunch of short stories featuring Keith Curry and his goblin partner Gunther. They work for NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division as food inspectors. This is a branch off of a character featured in Irregulars but works fine as a stand alone.
The author has created a super entertaining urban fantasy world filled with all kinds of creatures. Some of the stories are about their cases and are creative and unique. Other stories are about the romance between Keith and Gunther.
There's quite a variation in the stories; different plots, some are short, some are long, some action packed, some romantic. My favorites were the romantic ones. The one about the Little Golden Book was all kinds of aww.....
If you like short stories and are looking for something a bit outside the box this would be a good choice.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
The author has created a super entertaining urban fantasy world filled with all kinds of creatures. Some of the stories are about their cases and are creative and unique. Other stories are about the romance between Keith and Gunther.
There's quite a variation in the stories; different plots, some are short, some are long, some action packed, some romantic. My favorites were the romantic ones. The one about the Little Golden Book was all kinds of aww.....
If you like short stories and are looking for something a bit outside the box this would be a good choice.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
October 7, 2018
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Author's Note states that this is part of the Irregulars universe, and that authors such as Ginn Hale, Josh Lanyon and Astrid Amara have all contributed novellas to the original volume (Irregulars, Blind Eye Books, 2012). I had no idea! I will be looking for the book that started it all because, well, I do like to read things in order, but also I felt like I was jumping into the middle of a story and it left me somewhat lost and confused.
The characters and writing that Nicole Kimberling gave us were stellar. The blurb is what got my attention from the start and I like unusual stories (sometimes), and this sounded like an adventure. Which it was, but again I felt like I was tossed into the middle of a story and that wasn't the best feeling. I will say that the more I read, the better - more comfortable - I became with the world and characters.
Grilled Cheese is NOT one story; it's in fact a collection of 6 short stories that follow the same characters and their relationship, tossed in with supernatural mysteries.
1.) Cherries Worth Getting
2.) Cookie Jamboree
3.) The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories
4.) Magically Delicious
5.) The Most Important Meal of the Day
6.) Bring Out Your Best
Cherries Worth Getting was the hardest story for me to get in to, but then when I realized there were these little codas mixed in, I was excited. There is some cute comedy mixed in with these stories, and some sexy times. And I loved when Keith would call Gunther his "live-in boyfriend." In the first story, they are reunited after being broken up for a while, and I love a good HEA, so these extra stories felt like one long epilogue, but better!
I should warn you that their is some rather icky discussion about goblins eating human flesh, and feeding it to unsuspecting humans. Blech! There are all kinds of non-human beings in these stories, and some were good and fun, and others were the bad guys. If I ever do find the time to read this universe from the beginning, I will be sure to come back to Grilled Cheese.
3 stars.
The Author's Note states that this is part of the Irregulars universe, and that authors such as Ginn Hale, Josh Lanyon and Astrid Amara have all contributed novellas to the original volume (Irregulars, Blind Eye Books, 2012). I had no idea! I will be looking for the book that started it all because, well, I do like to read things in order, but also I felt like I was jumping into the middle of a story and it left me somewhat lost and confused.
The characters and writing that Nicole Kimberling gave us were stellar. The blurb is what got my attention from the start and I like unusual stories (sometimes), and this sounded like an adventure. Which it was, but again I felt like I was tossed into the middle of a story and that wasn't the best feeling. I will say that the more I read, the better - more comfortable - I became with the world and characters.
Grilled Cheese is NOT one story; it's in fact a collection of 6 short stories that follow the same characters and their relationship, tossed in with supernatural mysteries.
1.) Cherries Worth Getting
2.) Cookie Jamboree
3.) The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories
4.) Magically Delicious
5.) The Most Important Meal of the Day
6.) Bring Out Your Best
Cherries Worth Getting was the hardest story for me to get in to, but then when I realized there were these little codas mixed in, I was excited. There is some cute comedy mixed in with these stories, and some sexy times. And I loved when Keith would call Gunther his "live-in boyfriend." In the first story, they are reunited after being broken up for a while, and I love a good HEA, so these extra stories felt like one long epilogue, but better!
I should warn you that their is some rather icky discussion about goblins eating human flesh, and feeding it to unsuspecting humans. Blech! There are all kinds of non-human beings in these stories, and some were good and fun, and others were the bad guys. If I ever do find the time to read this universe from the beginning, I will be sure to come back to Grilled Cheese.
3 stars.
December 17, 2018
A few years ago, author Nicole Kimberling introduced us to Special Agent Keith Curry and his sidekick/goblin translator, Hunter Heartman, in a piece entitled Cherries worth Getting, which was part of a compilation of short stories entitled The Irregulars. I thought the story was brilliant. We were introduced to a human chef turned food investigator for NATO’s Irregulars Affairs Division (NIAD), dating a field agent who turned out to be a transmogrified goblin who was insanely handsome and had the quirky habit of eating cigarettes and drinking lighter fluid. Honestly, could this get any better? Well, they are back and the stories are crazier, the creatures introduced more fascinating, and the love affair that began…over? What?
In a collection of short stories, our intrepid author maps out the reunion between her two dynamic heroes, and it is less than romantic. In fact, when last Keith and Hunter were together, Hunter had informed Keith he was not the (hu)man for him, and they parted just as Keith was realizing he more than liked Hunter and not just for the sex—which was pretty nice. In his current case, Keith is in need of a goblin linguist, and guess who shows up. Keith is determined to keep it professional, but before long their attraction surfaces once more and all bets are off.
Not only is the concept of a vegan ex-chef and a hefty meat eating goblin just crazy-good, but the way these two dance around their attraction for each other is absolutely divine. As each story delves into the strange and bizarre cases Keith takes on, we watch the fellas go from work colleagues to lovers to more. When you surround them with intriguing side characters and relatives (Hunter’s) then the stories become even richer, slightly more demented, and vastly entertaining. I can tell you that the Christmas themed short Cookie Jamboree and the story Magically Delicious were my absolute favorites. Magically Delicious introduces us to leprechauns, which Keith refers to as “angry ball biters” and good lord, it is hilarious.
If you have not read the original story from the anthology Irregulars, Ms. Kimberling gives you plenty of background on both Keith and Hunter to navigate this collection of short stories. This is a delightful body of work, and I highly recommend it to you!
In a collection of short stories, our intrepid author maps out the reunion between her two dynamic heroes, and it is less than romantic. In fact, when last Keith and Hunter were together, Hunter had informed Keith he was not the (hu)man for him, and they parted just as Keith was realizing he more than liked Hunter and not just for the sex—which was pretty nice. In his current case, Keith is in need of a goblin linguist, and guess who shows up. Keith is determined to keep it professional, but before long their attraction surfaces once more and all bets are off.
Not only is the concept of a vegan ex-chef and a hefty meat eating goblin just crazy-good, but the way these two dance around their attraction for each other is absolutely divine. As each story delves into the strange and bizarre cases Keith takes on, we watch the fellas go from work colleagues to lovers to more. When you surround them with intriguing side characters and relatives (Hunter’s) then the stories become even richer, slightly more demented, and vastly entertaining. I can tell you that the Christmas themed short Cookie Jamboree and the story Magically Delicious were my absolute favorites. Magically Delicious introduces us to leprechauns, which Keith refers to as “angry ball biters” and good lord, it is hilarious.
If you have not read the original story from the anthology Irregulars, Ms. Kimberling gives you plenty of background on both Keith and Hunter to navigate this collection of short stories. This is a delightful body of work, and I highly recommend it to you!
November 25, 2018
Not my style. I like fantasy, I'm OK with cooking themes, I don't mind sex scenes regardless of the preferences of the participants ... but I am not sure they work all in one pot.
Keith's a bit bland, Gunther's a bit too perfect. The rest of the characters are blah, except for the bad guy in the last story, who is just cardboard character #14b, the bwah-hah evil politician.
Publisher: can you get an editor who knows the difference between "breech" and "breach," and knows when to use "its" and "it's"? You shouldn't use a word three times in a book unless you know how to spell it.
The mysteries/crimes were quite good. And I had no problem with the novella-plus-shorts format, because they are consistent. It's too bad each one requires a bit of rehashing so it can stand alone.
Keith's a bit bland, Gunther's a bit too perfect. The rest of the characters are blah, except for the bad guy in the last story, who is just cardboard character #14b, the bwah-hah evil politician.
Publisher: can you get an editor who knows the difference between "breech" and "breach," and knows when to use "its" and "it's"? You shouldn't use a word three times in a book unless you know how to spell it.
The mysteries/crimes were quite good. And I had no problem with the novella-plus-shorts format, because they are consistent. It's too bad each one requires a bit of rehashing so it can stand alone.
October 8, 2021
Why did I take so long to get round to reading this book?? This has been the best urban paranormal (with M-M romance) I've read for several months. The world building kinda sneaks up on you ... the hidden existence of extra-humans mingling, working, marrying amidst the general human population on this earthly realm ... NIAD (Nato's Irregular Affairs Division) whose offices and arms spread like controlling tentacles across the globe - employing humans as well as mages, goblins, vampires, brownies, etc ... the use of portals ... the existence of multiple extra-human home worlds ... the Grand Goblin Bazaar! which totally gives Diagon Alley a run for it's money ... and OMG Faebook!!
This collection of novellas and novelettes thoroughly entertained me for hours; I was moved to laughter on several occasions and rather emotionally touched in a couple of others (especially the several pages dealing with a Little Golden Book). And heading up the cast is of course Special Agent Keith Curry (ex-chef) whose previous background and training informs his primary role as investigator/inspector of any extra-human food-related crime. Wow! is there a diverse range of such food-related crimes - and we thought illegal drugs and narcotics were complex! Of course Keith sticks his nose everywhere he's not authorized, gravitates to professionally off-bound places and innately undertaking actions that result in sanctions. Now add action strike-force response NIAD agent Gunther Heartman (transmogrified Ice Goblin who could pass as a model/action movie-star with a penchant for snacking on cigarettes and guzzling kerosene) to the mix and we get loads of romantic sparks and misunderstandings.
Both characters were so well developed to the point I could actually 'hear' them gesturing/posturing as they speak out loud. A myriad of fascinating extra-human (and human) characters pop in and out through these stories ... looming large amongst these being Gunther's ice- goblin parents and huge extended family, Keith's human boss, a powerful teenage mage, a memorable doyenne called Excoria, an orange moggie, a sentient AI ... I could go on and on folks.
My greatest wish is for more stories from this world but alas - Ms Kimberling appears to have stopped writing Keith/Gunther tales. At least there is a remarkable and heart-warming HEA chapter at book's end - totally well deserved 5 stars.
This collection of novellas and novelettes thoroughly entertained me for hours; I was moved to laughter on several occasions and rather emotionally touched in a couple of others (especially the several pages dealing with a Little Golden Book). And heading up the cast is of course Special Agent Keith Curry (ex-chef) whose previous background and training informs his primary role as investigator/inspector of any extra-human food-related crime. Wow! is there a diverse range of such food-related crimes - and we thought illegal drugs and narcotics were complex! Of course Keith sticks his nose everywhere he's not authorized, gravitates to professionally off-bound places and innately undertaking actions that result in sanctions. Now add action strike-force response NIAD agent Gunther Heartman (transmogrified Ice Goblin who could pass as a model/action movie-star with a penchant for snacking on cigarettes and guzzling kerosene) to the mix and we get loads of romantic sparks and misunderstandings.
Both characters were so well developed to the point I could actually 'hear' them gesturing/posturing as they speak out loud. A myriad of fascinating extra-human (and human) characters pop in and out through these stories ... looming large amongst these being Gunther's ice- goblin parents and huge extended family, Keith's human boss, a powerful teenage mage, a memorable doyenne called Excoria, an orange moggie, a sentient AI ... I could go on and on folks.
My greatest wish is for more stories from this world but alas - Ms Kimberling appears to have stopped writing Keith/Gunther tales. At least there is a remarkable and heart-warming HEA chapter at book's end - totally well deserved 5 stars.
September 15, 2018
Review by 2shay..........
The first thing you should know before grabbing a copy of this book, and I highly recommend that you do, is that this is not a continuous novel. It’s a novella and a collection of short stories. Before you roll your eyes, you should know that I’m not a fan of short stories. This is way different. This book, these stories, are so well written and so nicely edited that they flow seamlessly together. Honestly, it was more like reading a novel and the stories were just the next chapter of the book.
Keith Curry is the food inspector. He’s a very serious man. He’s determined to keep humans safe from those other-than-humans who have some...well...interesting tastes. Including human flesh. Eewwwww! Keith thinks as highly of human flesh as a gastronomic delight as I do. Just...eewwww!
Keith is gay. We learn, that before these stories begin, he has had a series of one night stands with the insanely gorgeous Gunther. Keith thinks he’s pretty ordinary himself, and wondered why a man who could capture the attention of anyone would show him any interest at all. Unfortunately, after several gratifying meetings, Gunther broke off their off and on relationship. And, readers, this is an important thread in the story. What do you do when confronted with a prejudice you didn’t know you had until forced to confront it? That’s what happens to Keith when he discovers that the extraordinarily handsome Gunther isn’t human. It’s a wake-up call for all of us to think hard about what unkind things we might had said or thought about those just a little different. It’s eye opening.
Cudos to Ms. Kimberling for including an important theme into a fun and entertaining paranormal tale. These stories are straight out great. Grab a copy and...
Enjoy! ARC graciously provided by Blind Eye Books and NetGalley for an honest and voluntary review.
The first thing you should know before grabbing a copy of this book, and I highly recommend that you do, is that this is not a continuous novel. It’s a novella and a collection of short stories. Before you roll your eyes, you should know that I’m not a fan of short stories. This is way different. This book, these stories, are so well written and so nicely edited that they flow seamlessly together. Honestly, it was more like reading a novel and the stories were just the next chapter of the book.
Keith Curry is the food inspector. He’s a very serious man. He’s determined to keep humans safe from those other-than-humans who have some...well...interesting tastes. Including human flesh. Eewwwww! Keith thinks as highly of human flesh as a gastronomic delight as I do. Just...eewwww!
Keith is gay. We learn, that before these stories begin, he has had a series of one night stands with the insanely gorgeous Gunther. Keith thinks he’s pretty ordinary himself, and wondered why a man who could capture the attention of anyone would show him any interest at all. Unfortunately, after several gratifying meetings, Gunther broke off their off and on relationship. And, readers, this is an important thread in the story. What do you do when confronted with a prejudice you didn’t know you had until forced to confront it? That’s what happens to Keith when he discovers that the extraordinarily handsome Gunther isn’t human. It’s a wake-up call for all of us to think hard about what unkind things we might had said or thought about those just a little different. It’s eye opening.
Cudos to Ms. Kimberling for including an important theme into a fun and entertaining paranormal tale. These stories are straight out great. Grab a copy and...
Enjoy! ARC graciously provided by Blind Eye Books and NetGalley for an honest and voluntary review.
October 10, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is an anthology featuring the adventures of Agent Keith Curry and his transgoblin lover, Agent Gunther Heartman. They both work for NATO’s Irregular Affairs Division, known as Irregulars, a secret law enforcement agency tasked with keeping the regular humans unaware of the goings on of otherworldly creatures. It’s a big job, and Keith has the distinction of being the first food inspector for the organization. He came into the job in an unusual way. A former chef who prepared some…questionable meals for his clients, he’s now a vegetarian and works to bring down the illegal goings on when it comes to food items.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is an anthology featuring the adventures of Agent Keith Curry and his transgoblin lover, Agent Gunther Heartman. They both work for NATO’s Irregular Affairs Division, known as Irregulars, a secret law enforcement agency tasked with keeping the regular humans unaware of the goings on of otherworldly creatures. It’s a big job, and Keith has the distinction of being the first food inspector for the organization. He came into the job in an unusual way. A former chef who prepared some…questionable meals for his clients, he’s now a vegetarian and works to bring down the illegal goings on when it comes to food items.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
August 29, 2018
Two of these stories have previously published in different anthology -- so I will focus on stories I have yet read and copy my review from the anthology for the other two.
Cherries Worth Getting: 4 Stars
Previously released in Irregulars, read in March 2012
Keith Curry is a ex-chef turned Irregular Agent, who is investigating culinary-related crime (humans are being murdered and their flesh are, well, being served as meat on restaurants *yuck*). Enters Gunther Heartman, an agent who is also goblin expert, and one time Keith's ex friends-with-benefit. They now must work together, while navigating around the 'case of the heart' as well.
It's an interesting set-up to the world of Irregulars agent. I think Keith is appealing, because he actually starts as a professional chef, rather than directly interested with Irregular's world (his reason for joining is interesting). The romance is subtle -- and there are some tender moments. So, though the ending is not HEA (it's more Hopeful For Now), I think the story is pretty good.
Cookie Jambore: 4 Stars
This is a Christmas Coda that happens before Magically Delicious. FINALLY, I found out how Keith and Gunther decided to move in together. This is sweet and pretty romantic for a short story
The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories: 3.5 Stars
Another coda where Keith Curry is trying to find this special book from Gunther's childhood, and discovers there's something even more personal to the book than both men initially thought.
This is a Christmas Coda that happened before Magically Delicious. FINALLY, I found out how Keith and Gunther decided to move in together. This is sweet and pretty romantic for a short story
Magically Delicious: 4 stars
Previously released in Charmed and Dangerous, read in September 2015
Kimberling revisits her characters from Irregulars, NIAD (NATO’s Irregular Affairs Division) agents Keith Curry and his goblin boyfriend Gunther in this short story. I don't know if reading their initial story will be necessary (but you should read that anthology anyway!) because this one has pretty straight mystery rather than progress on their relationship (except for the update that Keith has finally moved in with Gunther).
Gunther is the 8th NIAD agents 'attacked' by pixie-dust effects, and Keith finds out what really causing it. It gives focus on Keith and the chance for him to shine. Loved the 'temporary' partnership with the leprechaun. And I truly hope they keep the cat ^^.
I definitely wouldn't mind if Kimberling returns to this couple from time to time :)
The Most Important Meal of The Day: 4 stars
Keith and Gunther, in the middle of the apocalypse. I thought this was really SMART story!!! I LOVED the twist near the end about how the apocalypse was being handled. Yep, loved it.
Bring Out the Best: 4 stars
Keith is tackling a case of bad blood being delivered to non-humans and ends up solving another case. Which shows him as a worthy human ... and well, get a LOT of cookie points from Gunther's family, I presume. I LOVED THE ENDING!!! Please, please, please Ms. Kimberling, write more about Keith and Gunther in their blissfully life.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Cherries Worth Getting: 4 Stars
Previously released in Irregulars, read in March 2012
Keith Curry is a ex-chef turned Irregular Agent, who is investigating culinary-related crime (humans are being murdered and their flesh are, well, being served as meat on restaurants *yuck*). Enters Gunther Heartman, an agent who is also goblin expert, and one time Keith's ex friends-with-benefit. They now must work together, while navigating around the 'case of the heart' as well.
It's an interesting set-up to the world of Irregulars agent. I think Keith is appealing, because he actually starts as a professional chef, rather than directly interested with Irregular's world (his reason for joining is interesting). The romance is subtle -- and there are some tender moments. So, though the ending is not HEA (it's more Hopeful For Now), I think the story is pretty good.
Cookie Jambore: 4 Stars
This is a Christmas Coda that happens before Magically Delicious. FINALLY, I found out how Keith and Gunther decided to move in together. This is sweet and pretty romantic for a short story
The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories: 3.5 Stars
Another coda where Keith Curry is trying to find this special book from Gunther's childhood, and discovers there's something even more personal to the book than both men initially thought.
This is a Christmas Coda that happened before Magically Delicious. FINALLY, I found out how Keith and Gunther decided to move in together. This is sweet and pretty romantic for a short story
Magically Delicious: 4 stars
Previously released in Charmed and Dangerous, read in September 2015
Kimberling revisits her characters from Irregulars, NIAD (NATO’s Irregular Affairs Division) agents Keith Curry and his goblin boyfriend Gunther in this short story. I don't know if reading their initial story will be necessary (but you should read that anthology anyway!) because this one has pretty straight mystery rather than progress on their relationship (except for the update that Keith has finally moved in with Gunther).
Gunther is the 8th NIAD agents 'attacked' by pixie-dust effects, and Keith finds out what really causing it. It gives focus on Keith and the chance for him to shine. Loved the 'temporary' partnership with the leprechaun. And I truly hope they keep the cat ^^.
I definitely wouldn't mind if Kimberling returns to this couple from time to time :)
The Most Important Meal of The Day: 4 stars
Keith and Gunther, in the middle of the apocalypse. I thought this was really SMART story!!! I LOVED the twist near the end about how the apocalypse was being handled. Yep, loved it.
Bring Out the Best: 4 stars
Keith is tackling a case of bad blood being delivered to non-humans and ends up solving another case. Which shows him as a worthy human ... and well, get a LOT of cookie points from Gunther's family, I presume. I LOVED THE ENDING!!! Please, please, please Ms. Kimberling, write more about Keith and Gunther in their blissfully life.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 22, 2018
A very entertaining anthology of stories about Special Agent Keith Curry from the world of the Irregulars. This volume brings together a number of stories about Keith that have been published separately or as part of The Irregulars anthology.
"'NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division (NIAD) is a secret organization operating in thousands of cities around the globe. Its agents police relations between the earthly realm and those realms beyond this world, protecting citizens from both mundane and otherworldly dangers."
And into this dangerous role comes Special Agent Keith Curry. Keith manages to bridge the gap between earth and other wordly places by using his wits, his dogged investigation skills and the fact that he is rather stubborn. This stubbornness leads him to take risks, ignore authority and do things in his own way as long as he has his mage pistol beside him and even when he hasn't.
Keith finds the citizens from the other worlds to be fascinating, irritating, and also sometimes totally endearing in the case of Gunther his one time otherworldly boyfriend. As Keith carries out his role as a food inspector he tracks down both human and non-human crooks making the world a safer place for all and if he re-discovers his attraction for Gunther (goblin) Heartman at the same time then so be it.
This is a great volume of stories whether you are familiar with The Irregulars or not. It is great to see how Keith grapples with the otherworldly migrants who have settled into life on earth even though that life is a hidden one. I enjoy urban fantasy and so this volume of stories was just perfect for me. I thought Keith was a bit of a gruff character to begin with but of course by the end of the volume I wanted more adventures, more strange creatures and definitely more Gunther.
A great set of stories with very richly depicted and entertaining characters. If you like humour with your urban fantasy then this is defeinitely a volume of stories for you!
Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
"'NATO's Irregulars Affairs Division (NIAD) is a secret organization operating in thousands of cities around the globe. Its agents police relations between the earthly realm and those realms beyond this world, protecting citizens from both mundane and otherworldly dangers."
And into this dangerous role comes Special Agent Keith Curry. Keith manages to bridge the gap between earth and other wordly places by using his wits, his dogged investigation skills and the fact that he is rather stubborn. This stubbornness leads him to take risks, ignore authority and do things in his own way as long as he has his mage pistol beside him and even when he hasn't.
Keith finds the citizens from the other worlds to be fascinating, irritating, and also sometimes totally endearing in the case of Gunther his one time otherworldly boyfriend. As Keith carries out his role as a food inspector he tracks down both human and non-human crooks making the world a safer place for all and if he re-discovers his attraction for Gunther (goblin) Heartman at the same time then so be it.
This is a great volume of stories whether you are familiar with The Irregulars or not. It is great to see how Keith grapples with the otherworldly migrants who have settled into life on earth even though that life is a hidden one. I enjoy urban fantasy and so this volume of stories was just perfect for me. I thought Keith was a bit of a gruff character to begin with but of course by the end of the volume I wanted more adventures, more strange creatures and definitely more Gunther.
A great set of stories with very richly depicted and entertaining characters. If you like humour with your urban fantasy then this is defeinitely a volume of stories for you!
Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 9, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2018/08/24/...
Rating: 4 Stars - minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector from Blind Eye Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Stars - minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector from Blind Eye Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2018
This review first appeared on the blog Ally's Appraisals: https://wp.me/p37L0Q-Q3.
My Thoughts: Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector is a novel made up of collected stories that revolve around Special Agent Keith Curry. Once a chef, now Keith is an agent of the NATO Irregular Affairs Division where he specialises in food inspectors and investigations.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is an incredibly fresh look at urban fantasy. Not only is the book a m/m romance, but it blends fantastical elements with food health and safety administration.
I mean, what? Who would even think to mix the two? Better yet, why would you?!
I'll tell you what, Kimberling has merged the two to create such a nuanced and different world! With investigations ranging from searching for human protein, illegal magical inclusions to food, contaminated blood supplements, and world saving blintzes, Grilled Cheese and Goblins is such a unique urban fantasy.
Not only is the concept of the stories engaging but so are the characters. The main character Keith is in some ways a tough character. Do not get me wrong, I loved Keith but he plays things close to his chest. There's a sarcastic nonchalance that comes through the romance of the story and in ways he interacts with people. The best representation of this, is his relationship with his cat. If you read the novel, keep your eye out for the cute moment where Keith absolutely refuses to acknowledge that he adopted a cat.
Gunther the other main protagonist, a trans-human snow goblin, and romantic lead of the story, is a wonderful counter to Keith's distance. While reading you get the feeling that Gunther wants and he wants hard. Later, he loves and loves hard. I also adored how close Gunther was to his family! The cute (but horrifying) pictures of baby snow goblins plus how close he was to his parents, were really endearing.
Throughout the book it was so great seeing the romance transition from the beginning of the novel to the end. As the book is a collection of short stories, we are treated to snippets and moments from the years the pair are together. I'm not usually the biggest fan of compiled stories or anthologies but I really enjoyed Grilled Cheese and Goblins. The time jumps were really great; I enjoyed seeing Keith and Gunther experience the holidays, moving in together, and other milestones they passed over the years. I also really loved seeing the emotional growth of Keith as he came to terms with a few things about himself and the larger world he lives in.
I won't ruin anything but the last story of the novel, 'Bring Out Your Best,' was such an entertaining and sweet way to finish of the book. Seeing the moment where Keith takes a huge emotional step had me closing the book with a sappy smile.
Best Bits:
*I loved how bite sized the stories were. Puns, that I offer no apologies for, aside the stories were so easy to read. I would find myself devouring story after story as the larger world pulled me in.
*The world building is so vivid! The depth and detail that Kimberling has put into this book is staggering. I loved seeing all the other realms and the different characters who inhabited them.
*Bring your son to work day. So funny! Incredibly strange out of context but seriously, read the book and find out. One hint though: leprechauns.
*'The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories' - this small story was just so sweet <3 I honestly finished the story with such a huge smile.
Recommendations: If you're interested in reading something different, then Grilled Cheese and Goblins is for you. Not only does the book present a really unique premise but the romance of the story is sweet and entertaining.
If you think you need a little magical health and safety in your life, Grilled Cheese and Goblins is it!
Please note: I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins from NetGalley.
My Thoughts: Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector is a novel made up of collected stories that revolve around Special Agent Keith Curry. Once a chef, now Keith is an agent of the NATO Irregular Affairs Division where he specialises in food inspectors and investigations.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is an incredibly fresh look at urban fantasy. Not only is the book a m/m romance, but it blends fantastical elements with food health and safety administration.
I mean, what? Who would even think to mix the two? Better yet, why would you?!
I'll tell you what, Kimberling has merged the two to create such a nuanced and different world! With investigations ranging from searching for human protein, illegal magical inclusions to food, contaminated blood supplements, and world saving blintzes, Grilled Cheese and Goblins is such a unique urban fantasy.
Not only is the concept of the stories engaging but so are the characters. The main character Keith is in some ways a tough character. Do not get me wrong, I loved Keith but he plays things close to his chest. There's a sarcastic nonchalance that comes through the romance of the story and in ways he interacts with people. The best representation of this, is his relationship with his cat. If you read the novel, keep your eye out for the cute moment where Keith absolutely refuses to acknowledge that he adopted a cat.
Gunther the other main protagonist, a trans-human snow goblin, and romantic lead of the story, is a wonderful counter to Keith's distance. While reading you get the feeling that Gunther wants and he wants hard. Later, he loves and loves hard. I also adored how close Gunther was to his family! The cute (but horrifying) pictures of baby snow goblins plus how close he was to his parents, were really endearing.
Throughout the book it was so great seeing the romance transition from the beginning of the novel to the end. As the book is a collection of short stories, we are treated to snippets and moments from the years the pair are together. I'm not usually the biggest fan of compiled stories or anthologies but I really enjoyed Grilled Cheese and Goblins. The time jumps were really great; I enjoyed seeing Keith and Gunther experience the holidays, moving in together, and other milestones they passed over the years. I also really loved seeing the emotional growth of Keith as he came to terms with a few things about himself and the larger world he lives in.
I won't ruin anything but the last story of the novel, 'Bring Out Your Best,' was such an entertaining and sweet way to finish of the book. Seeing the moment where Keith takes a huge emotional step had me closing the book with a sappy smile.
Best Bits:
*I loved how bite sized the stories were. Puns, that I offer no apologies for, aside the stories were so easy to read. I would find myself devouring story after story as the larger world pulled me in.
*The world building is so vivid! The depth and detail that Kimberling has put into this book is staggering. I loved seeing all the other realms and the different characters who inhabited them.
*Bring your son to work day. So funny! Incredibly strange out of context but seriously, read the book and find out. One hint though: leprechauns.
*'The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories' - this small story was just so sweet <3 I honestly finished the story with such a huge smile.
Recommendations: If you're interested in reading something different, then Grilled Cheese and Goblins is for you. Not only does the book present a really unique premise but the romance of the story is sweet and entertaining.
If you think you need a little magical health and safety in your life, Grilled Cheese and Goblins is it!
Please note: I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins from NetGalley.
September 25, 2018
OK, first off, this is not one continuous story, which I'd have known if I'd read the blurb. Instead it's three shortish novellas with a few sort of bonus chapters that make some connections between the novellas thrown in. It's not what I was expecting, so I was thrown for a loop when what I thought of as the "book" ended at about the 30% mark (about 100 pages) and was followed by a sort of ... epilogue? bonus chapter?
So I did some digging and what this book actually is is a compilation of two existing novellas, Cherries Worth Getting and Magically Delicious, interspersed with some little one-shot slice-of-life bonus chapter like short stories of Keith and Gunther's life.
Full contents:
**Cherries With Getting (mystery/detective novella)
**Cookie Jamboree (one chapter holiday slice-of-life short story)
**The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories (one chapter slice-of-life short story)
**Magically Delicious (mystery/detective novella)
**The Most Important Meal of the Day (one chapter slice-of-life short story)
**Bring Out Your Best (mystery/detective novella)
I don't really care much for short stories, so I almost quit reading when I got to the second little slice-of-life short story after the first main novella. I'm glad I kept reading, because the other longer novellas are very good.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is a great Urban Fantasy detective series with a little side of M/M romance, though the focus on romance tends to show up more in the short stories. I love Kimberling's world building and how her magical world exists alongside the real world we live in every day. Keith has some major character development throughout the book (despite it not being one continuous novel!) as his relationship with Gunther progresses, and I love how much his attitudes about the extra-human community change - and how his eyes are opened so much to how they are treated (or mistreated) once he has some skin in the game with his boyfriend being trans-goblin. So yes, this is a fun Urban Fantasy read, but you can also draw your own comparisons to how people are truly being treated IRL because of race, sexual orientation, gender, ability... The final novella especially felt really politically charged.
I can't wait to read more about Keith Curry and his investigations, and Grilled Cheese and Goblins made me want to give me detective novels a try (normally not something in my preferred list of genres!)
So I did some digging and what this book actually is is a compilation of two existing novellas, Cherries Worth Getting and Magically Delicious, interspersed with some little one-shot slice-of-life bonus chapter like short stories of Keith and Gunther's life.
Full contents:
**Cherries With Getting (mystery/detective novella)
**Cookie Jamboree (one chapter holiday slice-of-life short story)
**The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories (one chapter slice-of-life short story)
**Magically Delicious (mystery/detective novella)
**The Most Important Meal of the Day (one chapter slice-of-life short story)
**Bring Out Your Best (mystery/detective novella)
I don't really care much for short stories, so I almost quit reading when I got to the second little slice-of-life short story after the first main novella. I'm glad I kept reading, because the other longer novellas are very good.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins is a great Urban Fantasy detective series with a little side of M/M romance, though the focus on romance tends to show up more in the short stories. I love Kimberling's world building and how her magical world exists alongside the real world we live in every day. Keith has some major character development throughout the book (despite it not being one continuous novel!) as his relationship with Gunther progresses, and I love how much his attitudes about the extra-human community change - and how his eyes are opened so much to how they are treated (or mistreated) once he has some skin in the game with his boyfriend being trans-goblin. So yes, this is a fun Urban Fantasy read, but you can also draw your own comparisons to how people are truly being treated IRL because of race, sexual orientation, gender, ability... The final novella especially felt really politically charged.
I can't wait to read more about Keith Curry and his investigations, and Grilled Cheese and Goblins made me want to give me detective novels a try (normally not something in my preferred list of genres!)
December 19, 2018
Actually finished this last month, but I was too lazy to write the review.
Only one new story in this book, the rest was re-released. What made me quite annoyed was that the typos from the first release hadn't been corrected at all! I kinda want to deduct one star for this issue, but I love this couple and this universe too much to do that.
Anyway, Keith's adventures were always fun to read, and his romance was really heart-warming.
Only one new story in this book, the rest was re-released. What made me quite annoyed was that the typos from the first release hadn't been corrected at all! I kinda want to deduct one star for this issue, but I love this couple and this universe too much to do that.
Anyway, Keith's adventures were always fun to read, and his romance was really heart-warming.
December 9, 2022
A sometimes funny, sometimes emotional collection of short mystery stories, plus romance. And goblins.
January 6, 2025
Realized I hadn't finished the last two short stories in this collection. So that's sorted. I really wish Kimberling would write more in this world - or anything. Miss her stuff.
October 4, 2025
3.5 stars. I’d read two of the stories in other anthologies when they first came out, and had enjoyed them. They didn’t work quite as well for me this time.
September 28, 2018
4-4.5 Stars
This book got me revisiting Keith Curry’s adventures as a NIAD Special Agent (that’s NATO Irregulars Affairs Division) specializing in magical food/drugs related inspections. “Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector” comprises of six novellas, four of which had previously been published before (each as part of paranormal anthology and seasonal coda). Each and every story is fast-moving, humor-packed, and uproariously entertaining. From “Cherries Worth Getting” to “Bring Out Your Best” Nicole Kimberling brought readers journeying from one realm to another following Agent Keith Curry solving problems and upholding law for humans and extra-humans alike.
Keith’s relationship with his trans-goblin boyfriend Gunther was also one of the sweet, cheeky, and touching romance that I love! Kimberling deftly fuse the romantic aspect into the storyline, taking into account the difference between our protagonists but without overly dramatizing the issue. The two underwent “normal” phase of relationship that improved with time, which included their extended family.
The story being told in his POV let readers into Keith’s head and shared his insecurity and adroitness. Which made Gunther the perfect partner for him given how in-tune the trans-goblin was to his human boyfriend, and how almost cutesy sweet they were as a couple. I thought Keith previously-being-a-chef also answered a lot for his short-temper and shrewdness in daily life. In a way, it was almost recompense him being “mere” human to find creative way dealing with extra-human case sans his mage gun. In fact, the latest two novellas - “The Most Important Meal of the Day” and “Bring Out Your Best” - validated Keith as cranky, sensitive, yet quick-witted and formidable agent in Irregulars universe with a no less strong and loyal boyfriend as his side-kick.
Altogether, “Grilled Cheese and Goblins” collection is some of the best fun I have in a while. Without a doubt, this book is going to go into my reread shortlist!!
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book got me revisiting Keith Curry’s adventures as a NIAD Special Agent (that’s NATO Irregulars Affairs Division) specializing in magical food/drugs related inspections. “Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector” comprises of six novellas, four of which had previously been published before (each as part of paranormal anthology and seasonal coda). Each and every story is fast-moving, humor-packed, and uproariously entertaining. From “Cherries Worth Getting” to “Bring Out Your Best” Nicole Kimberling brought readers journeying from one realm to another following Agent Keith Curry solving problems and upholding law for humans and extra-humans alike.
Keith’s relationship with his trans-goblin boyfriend Gunther was also one of the sweet, cheeky, and touching romance that I love! Kimberling deftly fuse the romantic aspect into the storyline, taking into account the difference between our protagonists but without overly dramatizing the issue. The two underwent “normal” phase of relationship that improved with time, which included their extended family.
The story being told in his POV let readers into Keith’s head and shared his insecurity and adroitness. Which made Gunther the perfect partner for him given how in-tune the trans-goblin was to his human boyfriend, and how almost cutesy sweet they were as a couple. I thought Keith previously-being-a-chef also answered a lot for his short-temper and shrewdness in daily life. In a way, it was almost recompense him being “mere” human to find creative way dealing with extra-human case sans his mage gun. In fact, the latest two novellas - “The Most Important Meal of the Day” and “Bring Out Your Best” - validated Keith as cranky, sensitive, yet quick-witted and formidable agent in Irregulars universe with a no less strong and loyal boyfriend as his side-kick.
Altogether, “Grilled Cheese and Goblins” collection is some of the best fun I have in a while. Without a doubt, this book is going to go into my reread shortlist!!
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2025
Read the third installment of Nicole Kimberling's Keith Curry's Case Files Series for Reddit Fantasy's 2025 Bingo Square Five SFF Short Stories. This qualifies for Hard Mode as it is an entire collection. I have to say this might be one of the best collections I've read! There are no bad stories, every single one is good and spoke to me, the more emotional ones were fantastic.
Cherries Worth Getting - 4⭐
In a world unaware of the existence of Supernatural Fae and Vampires, NATO's NIAD function like Men in Black, keeping order and protecting humans. Food Inspector Keith has a tough job navigating Portland, Oregon's culinary underworld to catch a killer bent on harvesting human flesh. The characterization of the crazier parts of the city and it's vibrant gourmet food scene was spot on. The author did an equal opportunity semi satirical roast of all the food snobs, sparing no one!
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Cookie Jamboree - 4½⭐
It seems transmorgified goblin Gunter has a collectible cookie cutters, one of his few addictions, that he lends to Keith to make cookies for NIAD's holiday gathering. Among the guests is Henry, Gunther's godfather, who decides the Gingerbread Men need a sprinkle of something extra. So cute and heartwarming.
The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories - 5⭐
Gunther wants to purchase a special book from his childhood that he loved as the perfect present for Audrey's baby shower, but he can't find it anywhere! So Keith, who is off on Saturday, offers to look for a copy to purchase. This is another one that hit me straight in the feels.
Magically Delicious - 4½⭐
Pixies are on strike, agents are going nuts including Gunther! Gunther's parents have moved in to care for him and now his mother has taken over Keith's territory! That cannot continue so now Keith has ample reason to get to the bottom of this case!
The Most Important Meal Of The Day - 4½⭐
People are dying, NIAD is in crisis and Gunther and Keith have been dispatched to get to a powerful wizard, the only one that can stop the world from ending. Unfortunately the Wizard refuses to do any work before he's had Blintzes for the most important meal of the day.
Keith really does a great MVP turn in this story. Only problem is now I have to make crepes since Blintzes are a bit more complicated.
Bring Out Your Best - 5⭐
Keith is having a terrible day at work between a bad case of tainted blood, bureaucracy, delays AND a colleague who is notoriously lazy and unhelpful. Then Gunther tells him cousin Jerry is moving in after having lost his job as an air force test pilot and before he can protest "DING" the doorbell rings. In the meantime he's trying to figure out how to propose to his hot boyfriend, in a way that complies with unfamiliar goblin "rituals" and "traditions."
Gosh, I LOVED this story for it's perfect blend of character drama, mystery and humor. From "You can't believe everything you see on FaeBook," to Cousin Jerry lamenting the loss of Alice, his fighter Jet AI (and her being equally giddy about him). The ending is just about one of the greatest endings, primed to make sentimental readers like me end up teary eyed. Especially if you're the sentimental type that loves traditions, the way this ended left a lasting impression on me.
Cherries Worth Getting - 4⭐
In a world unaware of the existence of Supernatural Fae and Vampires, NATO's NIAD function like Men in Black, keeping order and protecting humans. Food Inspector Keith has a tough job navigating Portland, Oregon's culinary underworld to catch a killer bent on harvesting human flesh. The characterization of the crazier parts of the city and it's vibrant gourmet food scene was spot on. The author did an equal opportunity semi satirical roast of all the food snobs, sparing no one!
" width="" height="" alt="description"/>Cookie Jamboree - 4½⭐
It seems transmorgified goblin Gunter has a collectible cookie cutters, one of his few addictions, that he lends to Keith to make cookies for NIAD's holiday gathering. Among the guests is Henry, Gunther's godfather, who decides the Gingerbread Men need a sprinkle of something extra. So cute and heartwarming.
The Little Golden Book of Goblin Stories - 5⭐
Gunther wants to purchase a special book from his childhood that he loved as the perfect present for Audrey's baby shower, but he can't find it anywhere! So Keith, who is off on Saturday, offers to look for a copy to purchase. This is another one that hit me straight in the feels.
Magically Delicious - 4½⭐
Pixies are on strike, agents are going nuts including Gunther! Gunther's parents have moved in to care for him and now his mother has taken over Keith's territory! That cannot continue so now Keith has ample reason to get to the bottom of this case!
The Most Important Meal Of The Day - 4½⭐
People are dying, NIAD is in crisis and Gunther and Keith have been dispatched to get to a powerful wizard, the only one that can stop the world from ending. Unfortunately the Wizard refuses to do any work before he's had Blintzes for the most important meal of the day.
Keith really does a great MVP turn in this story. Only problem is now I have to make crepes since Blintzes are a bit more complicated.
Bring Out Your Best - 5⭐
Keith is having a terrible day at work between a bad case of tainted blood, bureaucracy, delays AND a colleague who is notoriously lazy and unhelpful. Then Gunther tells him cousin Jerry is moving in after having lost his job as an air force test pilot and before he can protest "DING" the doorbell rings. In the meantime he's trying to figure out how to propose to his hot boyfriend, in a way that complies with unfamiliar goblin "rituals" and "traditions."
Gosh, I LOVED this story for it's perfect blend of character drama, mystery and humor. From "You can't believe everything you see on FaeBook," to Cousin Jerry lamenting the loss of Alice, his fighter Jet AI (and her being equally giddy about him). The ending is just about one of the greatest endings, primed to make sentimental readers like me end up teary eyed. Especially if you're the sentimental type that loves traditions, the way this ended left a lasting impression on me.
August 25, 2018
As always, the good stuff comes first: I LOVED this book. When I got the book, I had no idea I was delving into an existing universe of extra-humans and one food inspector. I had no problems finding my way, the book explains things very well and in a lovely way.
Essentially it's a love story, between an extra-human and a human with very special abilities - a profound sense of right and wrong, personal strength, stubbornness and disregard of "proper protocol" if the situation requires it. It's also a story of an "underdog" who is more capable of changing the status quo than most people would think - which I like very much!
I started to read yesterday evening and just now finished it, relishing every page and wanting to read more about Keith and Gunther.
The book, or as I should say, the collection of stories, which is made up of one novella and a bunch of short stories, is written and edited really well. The writing draws the reader into the story, the characters have depth and gain your sympathies, the world building is nicely done - all in all I need more stories from this world.
Now to the not so good (I can't say it's really bad, it just needs a warning / heads up): nowhere on the cover or in the blurb did it mention that a) explicit, detailed sex scenes were coming, b) a fair amount of expletives is strewn throughout the book .
I didn't mind all these things, as I'm an adult and can deal, but from the cover and description alone this book would have appealed to my teenager self and I'm fairly certain a lot of other young people would think so too. I don't think this book is entirely appropriate for an underage audience, at least not without a warning of some kind.
I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Essentially it's a love story, between an extra-human and a human with very special abilities - a profound sense of right and wrong, personal strength, stubbornness and disregard of "proper protocol" if the situation requires it. It's also a story of an "underdog" who is more capable of changing the status quo than most people would think - which I like very much!
I started to read yesterday evening and just now finished it, relishing every page and wanting to read more about Keith and Gunther.
The book, or as I should say, the collection of stories, which is made up of one novella and a bunch of short stories, is written and edited really well. The writing draws the reader into the story, the characters have depth and gain your sympathies, the world building is nicely done - all in all I need more stories from this world.
Now to the not so good (I can't say it's really bad, it just needs a warning / heads up): nowhere on the cover or in the blurb did it mention that a) explicit, detailed sex scenes were coming, b) a fair amount of expletives is strewn throughout the book .
I didn't mind all these things, as I'm an adult and can deal, but from the cover and description alone this book would have appealed to my teenager self and I'm fairly certain a lot of other young people would think so too. I don't think this book is entirely appropriate for an underage audience, at least not without a warning of some kind.
I received a copy of Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2018
I had read the first two novellas in the collection, but "Bring Out Your Best" was new to me, and apparently new in general. I'd also read most of the short pieces before.
I'd gotten the book "Irregulars" when it came out, but only got a couple of pages into it for some time because of the first story, the first in this collection as well, "Cherries Worth Getting." I don't think it's a terrible spoiler at this point to say what put me off, but if you don't want spoilers at all, don't read further.
**spoiler**
The cannibalism aspect of the story grossed me out.
Some months later, when I managed to read the story, I appreciated how well-written and creative it was. I liked the protagonists, Keith and Gunther, and their personality quirks. This is why I followed through in reading the next anthology that included a novella about them, the second novella in this book as well, and looked up the bonus short stories.
Keith is a powerless human in a world (multiverse, really) of magical beings, but rather tough-minded in his own way, and determined to solve his cases. Gunther is a "trans-goblin," a goblin in human form, but close to his untransformed relatives. Gunther understands human culture pretty well, but is in some ways caught between two worlds.
I enjoyed the balance of romance/mystery in the stories, but they're not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach. Those of my online friends who like mysteries, fantasy stories and romances that have gay protagonists and have a higher tolerance for gore than I do -- all of them, I think -- will greatly enjoy this.
I received a copy of the book from NetGalley.
I'd gotten the book "Irregulars" when it came out, but only got a couple of pages into it for some time because of the first story, the first in this collection as well, "Cherries Worth Getting." I don't think it's a terrible spoiler at this point to say what put me off, but if you don't want spoilers at all, don't read further.
**spoiler**
The cannibalism aspect of the story grossed me out.
Some months later, when I managed to read the story, I appreciated how well-written and creative it was. I liked the protagonists, Keith and Gunther, and their personality quirks. This is why I followed through in reading the next anthology that included a novella about them, the second novella in this book as well, and looked up the bonus short stories.
Keith is a powerless human in a world (multiverse, really) of magical beings, but rather tough-minded in his own way, and determined to solve his cases. Gunther is a "trans-goblin," a goblin in human form, but close to his untransformed relatives. Gunther understands human culture pretty well, but is in some ways caught between two worlds.
I enjoyed the balance of romance/mystery in the stories, but they're not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach. Those of my online friends who like mysteries, fantasy stories and romances that have gay protagonists and have a higher tolerance for gore than I do -- all of them, I think -- will greatly enjoy this.
I received a copy of the book from NetGalley.
September 3, 2018
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector is a new double-novella book by Nicole Kimberling. Due out 9th Oct, 2018, it's 317 pages and available in ebook and paperback formats.
I am a big fan of urban fantasy, though possibly a bit too much of a curmudgeon to consider myself a romance fan. These stories, while they definitely had a big romance component, were squarely in the not-too-saccharine category.
There are recurring characters and these two stories fit into a larger canon by the author. I read the book as a standalone and wasn't familiar with the setting or characters and I had no trouble following along.
I was definitely pleasantly surprised by the quality of the writing and plotting. The dialogue is very well done and humorous, but not too snarky. The language is often rough but not out of context and the sex scenes are well done and move the plot along (i.e., not gratuitous). As other reviewers have noted, this is an M/M story.
I enjoyed these stories enough that I fully intend to seek out the other works with these characters. Well done.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Grilled Cheese and Goblins: Adventures of a Supernatural Food Inspector is a new double-novella book by Nicole Kimberling. Due out 9th Oct, 2018, it's 317 pages and available in ebook and paperback formats.
I am a big fan of urban fantasy, though possibly a bit too much of a curmudgeon to consider myself a romance fan. These stories, while they definitely had a big romance component, were squarely in the not-too-saccharine category.
There are recurring characters and these two stories fit into a larger canon by the author. I read the book as a standalone and wasn't familiar with the setting or characters and I had no trouble following along.
I was definitely pleasantly surprised by the quality of the writing and plotting. The dialogue is very well done and humorous, but not too snarky. The language is often rough but not out of context and the sex scenes are well done and move the plot along (i.e., not gratuitous). As other reviewers have noted, this is an M/M story.
I enjoyed these stories enough that I fully intend to seek out the other works with these characters. Well done.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 21, 2020
This seemed like a fun concept, and got good reviews, so I decided to give it a try. While the concept was, in fact, fun, I found the first story pretty off-putting. Not only was it more on the gritty/gory end of the fantasy spectrum (which I don't mind, just was not expecting), the characters were one dimensional, and the pacing was all off. It was presented as a detective investigation type story, but the focus was on the romance aspect, and both romance and mystery resolved without much effort on the characters' part. Like other reviewers, I didn't realize this was a collection of stories, but when I did, and it turned out that lackluster first story was not all there was, I was pretty pleased.
I liked the later stories better, maybe because the characters had been established or because the author hit her stride writing about them, but they moved along and held my interest more than the first one. The characters grew on me a bit too, although they did not really develop more depth. As they went about their jobs, encountered various challenges, and their relationship developed, the stories improved (Gunther's family is rather more fun than Gunther himself, who remains a bit of a blank, pretty slate). I think "Magically Delicious" was my favorite, but "Bring Out Your Best" was fairly enjoyable too. There is some charm to these later stories, so if you are interested in the concept and world-building, you may enjoy this collection for them.
I liked the later stories better, maybe because the characters had been established or because the author hit her stride writing about them, but they moved along and held my interest more than the first one. The characters grew on me a bit too, although they did not really develop more depth. As they went about their jobs, encountered various challenges, and their relationship developed, the stories improved (Gunther's family is rather more fun than Gunther himself, who remains a bit of a blank, pretty slate). I think "Magically Delicious" was my favorite, but "Bring Out Your Best" was fairly enjoyable too. There is some charm to these later stories, so if you are interested in the concept and world-building, you may enjoy this collection for them.
March 29, 2023
It's been a while since I read Artemis Fowl but the world of supernatural idiots and detectives seems like an adult version of it. Agent Keith Curry is another scruffy detective that likes to cut corners but still these stories manage to feel fresh - largely because of the food inspection angle.
Tales of cannibalism and pixie dust definitely intrigue and themes of racism and having to hide yourself are very present with the supernatural species. There's a variety of humour present in the stories, including over-the-top things like crude leprechauns but also much more low-key remarks that I really enjoyed. The romance isn't a huge part of the story but it is also enjoyable.
The first story I read was the second novella 'Magically Delicious' in the book (as a part of Charmed and Dangerous) and I remember thinking it was fun but I felt a bit left out not having read the first one. And I still think the stories work better together than standalone. I even really liked the included shorts. I started out thinking Keith wasn't terribly likeable but I found myself being very fond of him during the last novella.
Tales of cannibalism and pixie dust definitely intrigue and themes of racism and having to hide yourself are very present with the supernatural species. There's a variety of humour present in the stories, including over-the-top things like crude leprechauns but also much more low-key remarks that I really enjoyed. The romance isn't a huge part of the story but it is also enjoyable.
The first story I read was the second novella 'Magically Delicious' in the book (as a part of Charmed and Dangerous) and I remember thinking it was fun but I felt a bit left out not having read the first one. And I still think the stories work better together than standalone. I even really liked the included shorts. I started out thinking Keith wasn't terribly likeable but I found myself being very fond of him during the last novella.
November 10, 2018
The Irregulars anthology, released in 2012, is one of my favourite paranormal fiction. It features stories by 4 authors in a shared universe, with a different story arc and different main characters is each story.
Cherries Worth Getting by Nicole Kimberling is one of the four stories. Over the years Kimberling has published another novella and a couple of short stories on her blog built upon the adventures of food inspector Keith Curry and snow goblin strike force agent Gunther. As a reader, I am really happy that these are now brought together in 1 volume Grilled Cheese and Goblins, plus there is a new story added.
Also, revisiting the stories in one go being a different perspective to things. I love how Kimberling has woven the magic of this world together, with a side of cheeky humour.
🍒🚬🧀🗡👨🍳
Cherries Worth Getting by Nicole Kimberling is one of the four stories. Over the years Kimberling has published another novella and a couple of short stories on her blog built upon the adventures of food inspector Keith Curry and snow goblin strike force agent Gunther. As a reader, I am really happy that these are now brought together in 1 volume Grilled Cheese and Goblins, plus there is a new story added.
Also, revisiting the stories in one go being a different perspective to things. I love how Kimberling has woven the magic of this world together, with a side of cheeky humour.
🍒🚬🧀🗡👨🍳
August 30, 2019
Not everything is about food
An excellent collection of stories! The Irregulars was one of the first m/m books I read, with the story of Keith Curry being particularly good. When further stories continued to pop up of Keith they were always a delight. It is amazing to see the progression of this character. From the man at the beginning who was still nervous around goblins, to the man years later that was concerned enough about the nutrition of extra-humans that he offered his own blood. It wasn't a change in who he was, just a change in how he saw and interacted with the world. His relationship with trans-goblin Gunther opened up a world of magic but also one of love and family and this let him grow to see more. And on top of all that, the cases Curry works are full of action and humour. A fantastic book that tells an amazing story!
An excellent collection of stories! The Irregulars was one of the first m/m books I read, with the story of Keith Curry being particularly good. When further stories continued to pop up of Keith they were always a delight. It is amazing to see the progression of this character. From the man at the beginning who was still nervous around goblins, to the man years later that was concerned enough about the nutrition of extra-humans that he offered his own blood. It wasn't a change in who he was, just a change in how he saw and interacted with the world. His relationship with trans-goblin Gunther opened up a world of magic but also one of love and family and this let him grow to see more. And on top of all that, the cases Curry works are full of action and humour. A fantastic book that tells an amazing story!
January 12, 2020
3.75 stars
This book consists of 2 stories that have been published earlier [Cherries worth getting, Magically delicious] and 1 new one [Bring out your best] and 3 short stories.
I love the goblin world set up. Bring out your best is the best among the lot with it converging to a very interesting goblin cultural requirement for marriage.
The irregular world set up is super interesting and it is really sad that we don't have more novels set in that world.
Keith is always fun to read and a pleasure to be around. His romance with Gunther is also very nice. The investigations add to taking their relationship forward in each of the stories and I like that.
This book consists of 2 stories that have been published earlier [Cherries worth getting, Magically delicious] and 1 new one [Bring out your best] and 3 short stories.
I love the goblin world set up. Bring out your best is the best among the lot with it converging to a very interesting goblin cultural requirement for marriage.
The irregular world set up is super interesting and it is really sad that we don't have more novels set in that world.
Keith is always fun to read and a pleasure to be around. His romance with Gunther is also very nice. The investigations add to taking their relationship forward in each of the stories and I like that.
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